Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers to engage in cutting-edge research in international security, political science, diplomacy, defense, and global affairs. This prestigious program at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs is designed to nurture future leaders and scholars dedicated to advancing global peace and stability.
Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the fellowship provides access to a world-class academic community and expert mentorship from distinguished scholars, including Professor Stephen M. Walt and Dr. Steven E. Miller. Fellows gain valuable experience, professional development, and networking opportunities while contributing to impactful research shaping global policy and international relations.
Benefits for Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026
Annual Stipend:
- USD 56,000 for postdoctoral fellows
- USD 46,000 for predoctoral fellows
- Postdoctoral fellows (Ph.D. within 5 years) are eligible for benefits.
- Predoctoral fellows and senior postdocs receive partial reimbursement for health insurance premiums.
Eligibility Criteria for the Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026
For Predoctoral Applicants:
- Must be enrolled in a Ph.D. program.
- Have passed comprehensive or general examinations before the appointment.
- Must have made significant progress on the doctoral dissertation.
For Postdoctoral Applicants:
- Must have received a Ph.D. or equivalent degree.
- Applications are welcome from early-career scholars, university faculty, and professionals from government, military, or international research institutions.
- Must demonstrate expertise or experience in international security or related fields.
Available Subjects
- International Security
- Political Science and International Relations
- Law and Policy
- Economics
- Defense and Strategic Studies
- Global Governance and Diplomacy
- Natural Sciences related to global security and policy
How to Apply for Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026
- Application portal: VU Amsterdam Admission Portal.
- Visit the official Belfer Center website
- Click the ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your online application.
- Ensure you meet all eligibility and fellowship requirements before applying.
- Complete the SIFP application form carefully and accurately.
- Upload all required documents as listed on the official portal.
- Submit your application before the deadline to be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026 Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center is a one-year appointment for pre- and post-doctoral researchers, offering stipends of US $46K–$56K for work on security and policy issues. Applications open October 1 2025, close December 1, and require a CV, research statement, writing sample and three recommendations.
What is the Belfer Center for Science & International Affairs International Security Program (ISP) Fellowship?
Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026 Fellowship is a one-academic-year research appointment within the ISP at Harvard Kennedy School for pre- and post-doctoral scholars. Fellows pursue policy-relevant security research and are expected to be in residence full‐time.
Who is eligible for the ISP Fellowship for academic year 2026?
Predoctoral applicants must be in a PhD programme, have passed general exams, and have made significant progress on their dissertation. Postdoctoral fellows must have earned their PhD within the past five years (or equivalent) and hold relevant professional experience.
What research topics does Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026 the ISP Fellowship support?
The fellowship supports topics in U.S. and international security: diplomacy, force projection, weapons proliferation, terrorism, strategy, internal conflict and broader security studies. The ISP defines international security broadly
What is the stipend for the ISP Fellowship?
Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026, postdoctoral research fellows receive an annual stipend of US $56,000, and predoctoral fellows receive US $46,000. Benefits eligibility depends on PhD timeline.
How long is the fellowship appointment?
The fellowship lasts one academic year and requires fellows to be in residence for that period. It is non-deferrable.
What materials are required for Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center ISP Fellowship 2026 Fellowship application?
Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae (CV or resume), research statement (3-5 pages), writing sample (<50 pages), and contact information for three recommenders. Predoctoral applicants also submit an unofficial transcript.
When is the application deadline for the 2026-2027 academic year?
The application period opens on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 and closes on Monday, December 1, 2025. Recommendation letters are due by December 15, 2025 and applicants will be notified by February 15, 2026.
Can applicants apply to multiple fellowships within the Belfer Center?
Yes, the Belfer Center allows applicants to apply to multiple fellowship programs provided they meet each programs eligibility criteria and submit appropriately.
Does the ISP Fellowship offer visa sponsorship or include dependents?
While applicants may inquire, the general fellowship FAQ states that visa sponsorship is not guaranteed and spousal/partner affiliations are not automatically included. Applicants should contact the fellowship office for details.
How does the ISP Fellowship align with a career path in security and policy research?
The fellowship places you at the Harvard Kennedy School’s oldest security research program, providing access to faculty, libraries and a scholarly community. It’s designed to foster policy-relevant publication and elevate research credentials in security studies.
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